Outdoor Picture of the Day: Boulder Reservoir Lights Up North Boulder

Today’s Outdoor Picture of the Day captures one of Boulder’s most recognizable bodies of water: Boulder Reservoir, glowing beneath a wide Colorado sky with the foothills and Flatirons rising in the distance.

Locals simply call it “the Rez.” Located along Boulder’s northern edge, the reservoir has become one of the city’s signature outdoor destinations—a place where working infrastructure, wildlife habitat, and summer recreation share the same spectacular setting.

Built for Water, Embraced by Boulder

Construction of Boulder Reservoir began in 1954 on land purchased from a local dairy farm. The project was completed in February 1955, and water began filling the reservoir that spring.

According to the City of Boulder’s reservoir history, the 700-acre facility can hold approximately 13,270 acre-feet of water and typically provides about 20 percent of Boulder’s drinking water. Most of that water reaches the reservoir through the Boulder Feeder Canal, connecting Boulder to the larger Colorado-Big Thompson Project.

Recreation became part of the story almost immediately. Seventy-five tons of sand were brought in to create the original beach, and the reservoir’s first Fourth of July celebration attracted more than 1,400 cars. Visitors paid 25 cents to enter, picnic, swim, and experience Boulder’s newest community gathering place.

That remarkable transformation—from dairy farmland to vital water-storage facility and outdoor playground—is part of the broader history of Boulder’s lakes and reservoirs.

Summer Life at the Rez

On a warm Boulder day, the reservoir comes alive with paddleboards, kayaks, sailboats, fishing boats, and water skiers. Watercraft permits are required, and swimming is limited to the designated area while lifeguards are on duty.

The shoreline also attracts runners, cyclists, walkers, anglers, photographers, and wildlife watchers. A mostly unpaved route of approximately five miles circles the reservoir, passing through open grasslands with expansive views of the foothills.

Bass, catfish, and walleye inhabit the water, while osprey, herons, raptors, rabbits, and prairie dogs can often be spotted around the surrounding landscape. Picnic areas, volleyball courts, boat rentals, and the seasonal swim beach make the Rez one of Boulder’s most versatile outdoor spaces.

Wonderland Lake: North Boulder’s Quieter Water Gem

A short drive to the west, Wonderland Lake offers an entirely different experience. Nestled against the foothills near North Broadway, the lake feels quieter, smaller, and more connected to its surrounding neighborhood.

The mostly gentle trail system attracts families, walkers, runners, anglers, birdwatchers, and photographers. Trails also connect with the larger Foothills system, creating options for visitors who want to extend their outing.

Fishing is permitted in designated areas, but boats, flotation devices, and wading are prohibited. Portions of the shoreline are protected for wildlife, helping preserve the wetlands and natural habitat. Current access information and regulations are available through the City of Boulder’s Wonderland Lake guide.

Together, Boulder Reservoir and Wonderland Lake reveal two sides of North Boulder’s outdoor character. The Rez delivers open water, energy, and large-scale recreation. Wonderland Lake offers stillness, wildlife, and an easy escape close to home.

Today’s photograph captures exactly why Boulder Reservoir remains so beloved: big water, open sky, mountain views, and the unmistakable feeling of summer in Boulder.

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